After a great debut at the Venice Film Festival, a poignant indie movie about ageing and memory is gaining notice in the international film market. Sarah Friedland directed “Familiar Touch,” which has gained critical acclaim and significant distribution deals, making it a remarkable hit in independent film.
The film portrays the story of an octogenarian woman living in an assisted living facility and dealing with the realities of dementia. This intimate portrayal has sparked interest among festival juries and international distributors alike. At the Venice Film Festival’s Horizons section, “Familiar Touch” received three major awards: the Lion of the Future for Best Debut Film, Best Director for Friedland, and Best Actress for lead actress Kathleen Chalfant.
Friedland directed the film and wrote and produced it alongside Alexandra Byer of Rathaus Films and Matthew Thurm of Go For Thurm. Their collaborative approach featured genuine residents and staff from Villa Gardens, a continuing care senior complex, serving as cast and crew members.
Chalfant, Carolyn Michelle, Andy McQueen, and H. Jon Benjamin contribute to the film’s poignant story. “Familiar Touch” has already impacted several international film festivals, including the BFI London Film Festival, AFI Fest, and the Stockholm International Film Festival.
International sales have been strong, with Memento International handling crucial transactions. Recent acquisitions include distribution rights in Spain (Flamingo Films), China (HugoEast), and Indonesia (PT Falcon). This builds on past sales in France, Italy, Benelux, Scandinavia, the Baltics, and Brazil. The film will also play at the next Red Sea International Film Festival, expanding its worldwide reach.
With critical acclaim and savvy international distribution, “Familiar Touch” is set to become a notable independent film this year. It gives viewers a meaningful investigation of ageing, identity, and human connection.
